ATV RIDING TIPSRiding an ATV can be fun, but also very dangerous if the proper safety
riding practices are not performed. Many people are killed every year as a
result of ATV crashes. Teenagers are the least likely to practice safe riding
and therefore most prone to avoidable accidents. However, it is important that
any experienced or
first
time rider, young or old, ride ATVs with caution. Equally important is that
you follow your
states'
off road riding laws

Drivers only the age of 17 should operate an ATV
It is more common for younger drivers to be injured in an ATV accident as a
result of their inexperienced driving abilities. Even once a child turns 17,
they should be supervised by an adult when operating an ATV.

One vehicle = one rider
ATVs are meant for only one rider. Having two riders on a vehicle is extremely
dangerous. In addition, the weight of two people on an ATV can result in the
vehicle becoming unstable and flipping over.

Wear the proper protective gear
As with any power sport, you should wear
protective
gear when operating an ATV. The most important gear is a
helmet.
The most critical or fatal accidents are a result of the rider not wearing a
helmet and falling on their head. A helmet can save your life. It is also
important that you wear the appropriate eye protection when operating an ATV.
You don't want a rock or branch hitting you in the eye while cruising through
the woods. Wearing boots and gloves are also a good idea.

Consider taking a safety driving course
Taking a safety course will help educate you on how to properly handle your
vehicle and what your appropriate behavior should be while riding. Visit the
ATV safety institute to learn where you
can take riding lessons.

Avoid street and roads
ATV means all terrain vehicle. They are not designed or intended to be driven on
asphalt or concrete with large trucks and cars. It is important that you
also look to avoid driving on terrain that can cause your ATV to roll over as a
result of ground instability.

Avoid speeding
The faster you go the more you increase the chances of losing control. ATVs are
safe only when driven the speeds that they are designed to travel.

Avoid tricks
Many ATV injuries are a result of improper operation, i.e. trying to do tricks
and stunts.

Never drive an ATV while intoxicatedNever operate an ATV while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. It is
also important to note that taking prescription medications should be avoided.
They can impair your judgment, reaction time, and overall thinking process.

Carry a cell phone or walkie talkie
You need to make sure that you will be able to reach out and get help in the
event that you fall off your bike and get hurt. This is especially important if
you are riding solo. Whenever you go out riding alone, it is important that you
let someone know where you are going to be riding and when you intend on
returning.

Common sense.
As with anything in life, common sense goes a long way when riding an ATV.